The Lilac-breasted Roller (Coracias caudatus) is a member of the roller family of birds. It is widely distributed in sub-Saharan Africa and the southern Arabian Peninsula, preferring open woodland and savanna; it is largely absent from treeless places. Usually found alone or in pairs, it perches conspicuously at the tops of trees, poles or other high vantage points from where it can spot insects, lizards, scorpions, snails, small birds and rodents moving about at ground level.[2] Nesting takes place in a natural hole in a tree where a clutch of 2–4 eggs is laid, and incubated by both parents, who are extremely aggressive in defense of their nest, taking on raptors and other birds. During the breeding season the male will rise to great heights, descending in swoops and dives, while uttering harsh, discordant cries.

"The Lilac-breasted Roller, with its kaleidoscope palette of lilac, red, washed green, violet, blue, sienna, black and white, make it arguably one of the most beautiful birds in Africa, and my favorite bird to paint! At approximately 14 inches in length, it feeds primarily on grasshoppers, beetles, lizards and small amphibians, taking its prey from both the air and the ground. The name "roller" comes from their impressive courtship aerobatics, which include a shallow dive from a high elevation combined with a fast rock-and-roll motion and a loud raucous call." John Banovich .

High Roller - African Roller by John Banovich was released as a Signed and Numbered Limited Edition of only 175 Giclee Canvas art prints with a 16 x 12 image size and is for sale for $275 unframed. African Wildlife art prints and Lilac - Breasted Roller - African Birds in art prints for sale. Order yours today. For sale framed any way would like or unframed. We are a full service custom picture frame shop and can build a design to meet any style of budget. All artwork is professionally boxed and insured and guaranteed to arrive in mint condition.